Russian ballistic missiles rock Kyiv after day of drone strikes against Ukraine's capital

Russian ballistic missiles struck Kyiv overnight on September 24, 2023, as air defenses were engaged in the Ukrainian capital. Explosions were heard in the city center around 1:00 a.m. local time, triggering an air raid alert. War Editor Chris York recounted waking up to the sound of an explosion, only to have his phone display alerts for incoming missiles. He sought refuge in his hallway as a series of blasts shook his flat, setting off car alarms.

Further ballistic missile launches targeted Kyiv at 1:27 a.m., with York noting a total of eight explosions during the ensuing wave. As of the time of reporting, no casualties or damage had been announced by authorities. Russia's history of targeting civilian infrastructure and cities remains evident, with the day prior seeing deadly drone strikes on Kyiv that resulted in two deaths and at least 43 injuries.

The attacks caused damage to railway infrastructure, residential buildings, and a historic market in the Ukrainian capital.

On September 22, Russian jet-powered drones also attacked Kyiv, injuring eight individuals and striking sites in various districts of the city.